POWER SPOTS

Kobe is Kansai's best-kept secret. Its foreign influence is a great attraction, while often overlooked is its ancient history and natural beauty. This guide sets you on track for an awesome weekend getaway.

If you are obsessed with cats, then if there is one temple you should visit: Gotokuji Temple—the temple adorned with hundreds of maneki neko, or lucky beckoning cat statues.

Love is in the air! Whether found in nature or built by design, your heart will be filled to bursting when you catch a glimpse of these heart-shaped spots throughout the country, just begging to be photographed!

Yakushima is far removed from the hustle and bustle of mainland Japan. This mountainous island with its misty, primeval forests enchants visitors who come to take in the amazing scenery.

What's waiting for you along the cliffside shore of Goishi Kaigan in Iwate Prefecture? A team of AAJ editors and a videographer head out to Ofunato to capture the natural wonder of the region.

Okinawa Prefecture is full of smaller islands with stunning nature and beaches. Why not take a quick trip away from the busy capital of Naha and find a secluded beach all to yourself?

Ishigaki Island is home to some of the best spots to visit in Japan, and we've got five incredible places for you to check out while you're in the area!

Mark your calendar, because this year the stunning Rurikoin will be open for public viewing only from Sunday, November 1 through Monday, November 30.